Detroit Lakes, MN vs Montrose, MN

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Detroit Lakes is 16.2% cheaper than Montrose. With a cost index of 82 vs 98, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Detroit Lakes to Montrose should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Detroit Lakes is $925/month compared to $1,313/month in Montrose — a 30% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Detroit Lakes is more affordable at $246,200 median vs $260,100.

Median household income in Detroit Lakes is $62,123 compared to $98,832 in Montrose (-37.1%). While Montrose is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Detroit Lakes spend roughly 17.9% of their income on rent, more than the 15.9% in Montrose.